NFL fans are buzzing after the Kansas City Chiefs suffered an unexpected 38-0 defeat to the Denver Broncos in their regular-season finale. With Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and other starters rested, fans speculate the Chiefs deliberately lost to keep the Bengals out of the playoffs.
Chiefs rest starters in inconsequential game
The reigning Super Bowl champions had little at stake heading into Week 18 and opted to rest key players. However, the loss had major implications, allowing the Broncos to clinch their first playoff spot in eight years while the Bengals were eliminated.
Bengals-Chiefs rivalry fuels speculation
The Chiefs and Bengals have built a heated rivalry in recent years, with Joe Burrow’s team frequently challenging Kansas City in high-stakes games. Fans believe the Chiefs strategically avoided a playoff rematch with the Bengals, referencing past encounters and Burrow’s “Burrowhead” comments.
Mixed reactions from fans and analysts
- Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III tweeted, “Chiefs did everything they could to make sure the Bengals didn’t make the Playoffs.”
- Some fans agreed, calling the Chiefs “scared” of facing the Bengals.
- Others argued the Bengals sealed their own fate with a poor start to the season, emphasizing their 1-5 record early on.
Broncos dominate Chiefs’ second string
Carson Wentz struggled as the Chiefs’ backup quarterback, while the Broncos excelled under Bo Nix, who threw four touchdowns. The Chiefs failed to score a touchdown for the first time all season, raising questions about their depth.
Playoff implications
- Broncos: The win sets up a Wild Card matchup against the Bills in Buffalo.
- Chiefs: With a first-round bye, Kansas City awaits the winner of the Chargers-Texans game in the divisional round.
- Bengals: Cincinnati’s season ends in disappointment, falling short of the playoffs after their rocky start.
The Chiefs’ decision to rest starters may have strategic merit, but the fallout from the loss has only intensified the drama as the NFL playoffs begin.
